Dothan Crane Accident Lawyers
Alabama attorneys fight to obtain compensation for crane injuries
Cranes are essential to many construction projects, moving heavy loads to from place to place or lifting material or equipment to high elevations. However, cranes are sometimes unstable and susceptible to strong winds and other weather conditions. In addition, not all construction contractors adhere to adequate safety measures in crane operations. As a result, workers and passersby are exposed to the risk of crane malfunction or collapse. Such accidents can result in catastrophic injuries. At Carey & Hamner, P.C., our Dothan crane accident lawyers fight to help victims recover the compensation they need and deserve.
Types of crane accidents that cause severe injuries
Depending on the size, duration, and nature of a job, a worksite will employ either a mobile or a fixed crane. Mobile cranes are mounted on vehicles, so they can move from one worksite to another, and typically handle lighter loads. Fixed cranes, anchored on foundations, are used to lift very heavy loads to heights.
As with all complex equipment used in construction, cranes require operational skill. Their usage also requires thorough preparation. Unfortunately, cranes sometimes are hastily put into operation, leading to accidents that include the following:
- Boom failure
- Structural failure
- Contact with power lines
- Dropped loads
- Tipping
- Fallen workers
A crane accident can be due to natural occurrences like storms, to mechanical problems or to human error. Determining the cause of an accident is vital to recovering compensation for victims.
Common causes of crane accidents in Alabama
Crane accidents may result from misuse of the crane or a defect in the mechanism. Common causes include:
- Negligent maintenance
- Poor positioning
- Overloading the crane
- Poorly balanced load
- Poorly secured load
- Overextending the boom with a heavy load
- Failing to stabilize the crane with outriggers
- Operating a crane in excessively windy conditions
A construction accident attorney from our firm investigates each accident thoroughly to ascertain what or who caused the accident.
Determining fault for a crane accident
Depending on the circumstances, parties that might be liable for a crane collapse include:
- Equipment manufacturer
- Crane supplier
- Crane operator/operation supervisor
- Maintenance subcontractor
We identify all potentially responsible parties and take the actions necessary to seek financial damages.
Safety precautions that prevent crane accidents are often avoided
Safety procedures and safety equipment can prevent crane accidents and mitigate the damage if accidents occur. Employee training is essential, so that everyone working on or near the crane understands the risks and observes protocols. Every worker should know the crane’s load limits and balance requirements. Safety equipment such as hard hats can prevent or lessen the intensity of head injuries.
Compensation for crane accidents
Workers’ compensation is usually an injured worker’s only legal remedy against his or her employer. However, if a worker does not have an employer-employee or coworker relationship with the party responsible for the accident, a third-party negligence lawsuit may be possible. While workers’ compensation is limited to medical bills and partial replacement of lost earnings, a lawsuit allows an injured worker to recover full damages, including pain and suffering. Our crane accident lawyers can determine if you have grounds for a negligence lawsuit and will aggressively pursue the compensation your injuries deserve.
Contact our skillful Dothan crane accident lawyer for a free consultation
Carey & Hamner, P.C. represents victims of crane collapses and other accidents in Dothan and throughout Alabama. Call 855-435-4797 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. If you are unable to visit our office due to your injuries, we can come to you.
